Thai cuisine is loved far and wide, as many have come to crave its subtly sweet, tangy, and savory flavors and fresh ingredients. What many people find that they love the most about Thai dishes are the vegetables that are incorporated into so many recipes. Authentic Thai dishes use a variety of vegetables in soups, noodle dishes, and dumplings, making use of their delicious versatility. When folks in Kahului, HI, are craving unique Asian cuisine, they look to Thailand Cuisine 2. With original Thai dishes that appeal to vegetarians and meat-lovers alike, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your hunger.

If you’re new to the world of Thai cuisine, learn about five of the most common vegetables found in Thai dishes:

• Bok Choy: Bok choy is a leafy, green vegetable with a mild, earthy flavor that works well in all kinds of Thai cuisine. It is usually steamed long enough to soften the leaves and is used to make a stir fry more hearty or build up the body of a tasty soup. Bok choy is not only delicious and easy to work into many Thai dishes, but it offers high nutritional value as well.
• Eggplant: While we have come to know and love the eggplant here in America, it has been used in Thai dishes for many years. Often paired with a curry sauce, eggplant can be found grilled to perfection and seasoned with spices and fresh herbs at most Thai restaurants.
• Water Chestnuts: Water chestnut is a textural component that adds a uniquely soft crunch to many Asian salads, soups, or even non-vegetarian dishes.
• Edamame: You’ve likely heard of edamame before, as it is popular in many Asian cuisines. These young soybean seeds are usually steamed and eaten as a snack dressed lightly with salt or soy sauce.
• Thai Chilies: Many people are drawn to Thai dishes because they beautifully meld together sweet and spicy flavors all in one bite. Thai chilies are to be given much of the credit for the spicy component that leaves so many diners wanting just a few bites more. They are used in all kinds of dishes and vary in spice levels but are most often found steamed or sautéed to mellow and refine the flavor of the pepper.

The next time you’re craving a delicious and healthy meal, consider trying a Thai restaurant that easily incorporates regional vegetables into memorable meals. In Kahului, HI, that means going to Thailand Cuisine 2. Visit them online, or give them a call at (808) 873-0225.